Barbara Sue Filipas, age 80, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Barbara was born on December 11, 1944, in Harlan, Kentucky. She devoted her life to her family and was known by all who loved her for her warmth, strength, and compassion.
Barbara began working at Kmart when she was very young. Her natural leadership quickly stood out, and she thrived in management for many years. Even long after her career ended, former coworkers often spoke fondly of working under “Barb.” One special moment came at her nursing home, where a kind nurse recognized her as a former manager and said again, on the day Barbara passed, how much she had loved working for her.
Barbara’s greatest passion was her family—especially her sons and her beloved dogs, who became her dearest companions. Buddy and Miley were a huge part of her daily life. Poodie, the family dog which was not hers, loved to live with her in the little “granny shanty” and really became hers. She made her wishes clear: she wanted the ashes of both Poodie and Buddy to be with her when she passed, so they could all be together again.
She had a deep love for flowers and gardening—the more blooms in her yard, the happier she was. She also had a collector’s heart and especially adored her cherub angel collection, which could be found throughout her home. Children naturally gravitated to her kind spirit, and she was lovingly known as “Gramma” by kids all over the neighborhood and beyond.
Barbara didn’t need much to be happy. She found joy in the little things: being with people, chatting over coffee, going to lunch, and indulging in her two favorite treats—ice cream (always first) and pizza (a close second). She loved life, loved people, and brought joy to everyone around her.
Barbara’s love of family was well known. She shared a tight bond with her sisters, and the years they all lived close to one another brought countless stories, laughter, and memories. She deeply loved her brothers and never stopped grieving the loss of her beloved parents, who were always there for her and whom she adored.
In her later years, Barbara found a church home at Valparaiso Nazarene Church (VNC). When she felt well, you could find her sitting in the third row, praising Jesus and soaking in the music she loved. In her final years, Barbara bravely faced the challenges of dementia—a heartbreaking disease that often steals memories, recognition, and connection. But by God’s grace, it did not win in the end. Barbara knew her boys and her family all the way to her final day—something rare with this disease, and a blessing that her loved ones will cherish forever.
She was a loving mother to Gary Filipas (wife Kimberly Filipas) and Terry Filipas (wife Debbie Filipas), and a cherished grandmother to Ryan Filipas, Rose Filipas, and Katie Filipas. She is also survived by her brothers Bill Gilbert (wife Toni) and Wayne Gilbert (wife Frances), and her sisters Sharon Myrick and Donna Stotts (husband Wally). She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Hoover Gilbert.
A visitation will be held Tuesday, May 20th from 11 am – 1 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm and burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery. Barbara will be remembered for her loving heart, joyful spirit, and the legacy of kindness and laughter she leaves with all who knew her.
GUESTBOOK
Oh my Sweet Sister. I will Forever miss you. You were the best Sister to all of us. You made our lives Complete with your Love. Thank you for being my Sister and we were Blessed to be your Sister. I will never forget all of our fun times. Love you Forever. -Donna Stotts
So sad to learn of your passing. I didn’t know her long But knew Immediately she had a sweet heart She will be missed by her family and friends Rest in peace. Beautiful lady. -Barbara Boston VonAchen and Richard VonAchen
Gary and Kim and family. We have spent quite a bit of time with Barb through the years. I was always impressed how fiercely she loved her family!! Her boys and her grandchildren were her life. And then there was her dogs, she had to know where they were every minute. We have seen her through the good times and some of the bad times. She loved little kids, there were always some hanging around her. A big tribute to her is the two lovely men who are her sons. And the way she treated Kim endeared her to us. She was always bringing some present to Kim. She loved nothing more than when they were home and she could come over for coffee. She was glad to see us when we were there. May God bless you all as you miss this beautiful lady. -Phyllis and Bill Crawford
